In a significant escalation of political tensions in Osun State, Governor Ademola Adeleke has threatened to file a N5 billion defamation lawsuit against the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC). The contention began when the APC accused a chieftain of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of inciting violence ahead of the 2026 governorship elections. This accusation was largely based on a viral video in which the unnamed PDP member allegedly discussed plans to bomb the office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun. The video raised alarms within the APC, particularly as it alluded to threats against key electoral figures and hinted at a violent strategy should the PDP face electoral defeat.
Mr. Kola Olabisi, the APC’s Director of Media and Information, drew attention to the disturbing content of the video, which he claimed showcased the PDP’s fears regarding its electoral prospects. The propaganda was said to mirror tactics employed in Edo State, with calls for extreme violence to disrupt electoral processes in Osun State. The remarks included directions on executing a bombing and implied a strategic plan to influence the election outcome through significant disruptions, heightening fears over potential political violence in the upcoming elections. This accusation paints a grim picture of the electoral environment in Osun, further dividing the already polarized political landscape.
In response to these alarming claims, Olabisi expressed disappointment at the absence of any condemnation from Governor Adeleke or the PDP leadership, which he argued implicated them in the alleged violent agenda. He urged the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the allegations thoroughly, claiming that proactive measures must be taken to prevent any potential bloodshed during the elections. Olabisi’s assertions reflect a significant concern over the safety and integrity of the electoral process in Osun State, suggesting that such incendiary rhetoric could lead to real-world violence if left unchecked.
On the other hand, Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, vehemently defended the governor against the allegations, labeling them as offensive and defamatory. Rasheed condemned Olabisi’s statements as baseless and irresponsible, asserting that there had been no intention or plan by Governor Adeleke or the PDP to instigate violence against INEC or its officials. The spokesperson indicated that the governor is prepared to seek legal redress and demand a retraction of the allegations, signaling a serious commitment to counter what they perceive as an unfounded attack on their reputation. This legal threat underscores the high stakes involved in the political narrative and the lengths to which both parties will go to protect their identities.
Furthermore, Rasheed also accused the Osun APC of making similar violent threats regarding the upcoming elections and capturing incriminating media that allegedly showcase their violent intentions. He argued that the governor remains undeterred by such reckless rhetoric, claiming that the PDP enjoys widespread support among the populace. This counter-narrative by the PDP places the onus of violence on the APC, suggesting that they are the ones who have historically utilized intimidation and threats to advance their political goals. This exchange of blame indicates a broader strategy at play, where each party aims to shape public perception and establish themselves as the more stable and trustworthy option for governance.
Overall, the escalating tensions between the governor’s camp and the APC reflect broader issues within Nigerian politics, particularly concerning electoral integrity and violence. The exchange illustrates how deeply contentious the political landscape has become, with both parties leveraging the media to attack one another while simultaneously absolving themselves of responsibility for any violent outcomes. As the 2026 governorship elections approach, the rhetoric and actions of both the PDP and APC will likely be scrutinized, with their communications contributing significantly to an already charged atmosphere. Navigating this environment will require careful, strategic communication from both sides to avoid further polarization and unrest in Osun State.
